Your post has been published!

unemployed chowhound to take trendy best friend for bday!

OK, here the deal. Best friend's bday was last week, and my original plans fell through (Kathy Griffin at the Laugh Factory). So now I need a back-up plan.

Best Friend is not really a foodie, actually he cares little about food, but loves hanging out in tragically hip, happening hot spots. Unfortunately, I don't have the $$$ for most of L.A.'s hip happening hot spots.

So what I'm asking is probably anathema to most of you chowhounders but... I need a COOL looking, HIP place, regardless of what the food taste like -- it just needs to be AFFORDABLE (dinner under $25.00 per person). Prefer Silverlake, Los Feliz, Hollywood, West Hollywood area. Any suggestions? Thx.

Recommended From Chowhound

Crab cakes are so often disappointing -- mushy or gummy, full of starchy filler. But these easy cakes are full of beautiful lump crabmeat, and a light panko coating ensures they fry up crispy and golden brown. Bright, lemony aioli makes a piquant counterpart to the sweet, sweet crab. Read more.

Summer is in full swing, which (hopefully) means trips to the park or the beach. If you’re taking a picnic along, you should know a few food safety rules so you can pack, transport, and eat your meal without the threat of food poisoning. Liz Weinandy